The features of fault tectonics and deep structure of the seismoactive zones in Eastern Priamurye

Abstract

The paper examines the spatial relationship between the seismoactive zones in eastern Priamurye (М ≥ 5) and the regional faults and hidden fault zones identified from the gravity and magnetic anomaly axes. The seismoactive zones where earthquakes with М ≥ 5 occurred are mostly confined to the regional faults, though such a relationship has not been validated in two cases. The seismoactive zones are detected both at the regional fault intersection and in areas where the regional faults intersect with the hidden faults of various ranks. According to the data obtained by deep seismic sounding (DSS), earthquake converted wave method (ECWM) and magnetotelluric sounding (MTS), the seismoactive zones are formed by deep inclined and subvertical faults. The indications of fluid saturation are found in the seismoactive zones from geophysical data which show that the seismoactive faults often control low-velocity and low-resistivity anomalies in the crust and upper mantle. In some cases, the Moho displacement and the dome-like flexures of the crustal and Moho boundaries are observed along these seismoactive faults and the abundance of the conversion boundaries in the crust is also noted. The deep pattern of the seismoactive faults and the revealed indications of fluid saturation allow us to consider the seismoactive zones in eastern Priamurye as the channels providing fluid supply from the mantle to the crust.